Russell Hotzman

Russell M. Hotzman, 77, of Alsace Township, passed away July 29, 2016 in Penn State Health- St. Joseph.
He was the husband of Joanne L. (Beamenderfer) Hotzman; they celebrated 59 years of marriage.
Born in Reading, he was the son of the late Frederick W., Sr. and Beatrice I. (Mervine) Hotzman.
Mr. Hotzman was an US Marine veteran and was employed in construction for Service Electric for over 20 years.
Russell took pride and was very active in many organizations: life time memberships of PA Trapper's Association, District II; North American Trap Collectors Association; member of Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsman's both state and local levels; Horace M. Kieffer Home Association; Lower Alsace Beneficial Association; Reading Liederkranz; Mertztown Rod and Gun Club. He also was a hunter and trapper education instructor for The PA Game Commission for 30 years and taught youth field days since its infancy.
Russ's colorful personality was evidenced in the multiple personas he portrayed- Mountain Man, French Trapper, Merry Whittler, Father Christmas and he could be seen parading around in his German Liederhosen- a true showman. He was a wealth of knowledge in many aspects of his life from his love of nature, his joy of being a true sportsman, outdoor educator, to growing his variety of gardens to whipping up a gourmet meal from scratch. He and his wife enjoyed many hours together scouring flea markets, vacationing at their potter county cabin and taking German classes together.
He will be sadly missed by his family and Mr. Murphy and "the girls" Emma Rose and Daisy Mae.
Surviving in addition to his wife Joanne, are his children Keith A. Hotzman of Fleetwood; Kimberly A. Hotzman of Reading; Kellie A. Springer, wife of Craig of Glenmoore, PA; four grandchildren Dalton, Shelby, Nathan and Cole. Other survivors include his brothers Frederick Hotzman, Jr. of Pennside; Bruce Hotzman of Naples, FL; Gerald Hotzman of Mohnton. He was preceded in death by his sister Marilyn Streeter.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Russell's memory to Wildlands Conservancy: 3701 Orchid Place, Emmaus, PA 18049.
Gathering of Family and Friends will be held in Bean Funeral Homes, North 16th & Rockland Streets, Hampden Heights, Friday, August 5, 2016 from 6:00-8:00pm.